11 January 2011
Mediarelease:
Dr Gifford Kerr, Consultant in Public Health, said: “The latest information we have is that all GP practices in Blackburn with Darwen currently have a vaccine supply. We have placed orders for additional supplies of the H1N1 Pandemrix vaccine for four practices, which are expected to arrive by the end of this week, and have arranged for vaccine supplies to be transferred between practices in one instance.
“While we currently do not have any concerns about vaccine supply in Blackburn with Darwen, we would like to stress that the free vaccine is only available for patients who are in one of the ‘at risk’ groups, including pregnant women and those over 65.
“GP practices will only vaccinate those at risk. While private vaccination arrangements can be made through some pharmacies, we would urge people not at risk to refrain from seeking vaccination at this time in order to conserve the limited supply for those who need it.”
Background information
Who is at risk?
Anyone can get flu, at any age, but for winter 2010/11 the following groups are especially at risk of developing complications if they catch the flu virus:
- People of any age with chronic heart, lung, metabolic disorders (including severe asthma and diabetes), kidney problems or a lowered immune system due to treatment or disease.
- Pregnant women.
- Everyone aged 65 years and over.
- Those in long stay residential care accommodation where flu, once introduced, may spread rapidly.
The majority of people in these groups will experience mild to moderate symptoms, in line with the rest of the population – however it is important to talk to your GP for advice about anti-viral treatment.
The most important message for anyone who is in one of these groups is to have a flu jab each year, to reduce the risk of catching the flu in the first place.
7 January 2011
Mediarelease:
Dr Gifford Kerr, Consultant in Public Health, said: “Earlier this week our GP practices reported having sufficient vaccine supplies to meet the demand they were experiencing at the time.
“However, things have moved quickly and there has been a surge in demand for flu vaccine in the last couple of days. The Department of Health has now advised that any practices with insufficient seasonal flu vaccine can now offer the H1N1(swine flu) vaccine and a few of our practices are gearing up to do so.
“There is plenty of stock of the H1N1 vaccine available nationally and we will be able to order additional supplies for any GP practices that need it from early next week.”
5 January 2011
Mediarelease:
Dr Gifford Kerr, Consultant in Public Health, said: “Currently, there are no concerns with local supply issues of the seasonal flu vaccination in Blackburn with Darwen.
“We are in regular communication with our GP practices to ascertain the level of stocks remaining, which remain on target for the levels of those ‘at risk’ patients still to be vaccinated.”
